Napierala S, Adou-Lath C; International Conference on AIDS.

Int Conf AIDS. 2000 Jul 9-14; 13: abstract no. ThPeD5612.

S. Napierala, 06 BP 1282, Abidjan 06 Cidex 01, Cote D'Ivoire, Tel.: +225 5 95 02 60, Fax: +225 21 24 30 19, E-mail: suenap@hotmail.com

Background: A study was conducted of roughly 25% of women of childbearing age in a typical village in the northwest region of Cote d'Ivoire. The results were used to evaluate their knowledge before implicating an AIDS prevention project. Methods: A KAP (Knowledge, Attitude, Practice) study was conducted in the local language by two members of the village health committee trained in KAP methodology. The study was done interview style, and individually, at each womans home. Acknowledging a village womans busy schedule, it was important to choose an appropriate time of day for the interview, as well as an appropriate setting, where relatives or other potential distractions would not inhibit the individual from responding frankly. Results: 33% of the women had heard of at least one modern method of contraception. 50% knew of a traditional method called "the chord" (a chord attached around the waist). Of the women interviewed, only 8% had ever tried a method of birth control. 92% of the women had heard of AIDS, but none knew how AIDS is transmitted, or how it can be avoided. Over 50%, however, knew that AIDS is a disease that cannot be cured. All of the women involved in the study indicated an interest in learning more about AIDS and contraception. Conclusions: There is a clear lack of knowledge, yet an expressed interest, amongst these women concerning contraceptives and the prevention of AIDS. An education program implemented in this village, if properly conducted, could be highly effective. It must begin at a basic level, as well as be adapted for illiterates, and means of contraception, particularly the condom, must be made available.

Publication Types:

• Meeting Abstracts

Keywords:

• Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
• Attitude
• Behavior
• Communication
• Condoms
• Contraception
• Cote d'Ivoire
• Educational Status
• Family Characteristics
• Female
• Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
• Humans
• Knowledge
• Rural Population
• education
• methods

Other ID:

• GWAIDS0004741

UI: 102242238

From Meeting Abstracts